Why Do Mosquitoes Love Me So Much?
WouterThose of you who are constantly bitten by mosquitoes have probably wondered why they love you so much. There are a few things that may explain your attraction to these pesky insects, but scientists are still not sure exactly why.
A new study suggests that it’s not just your blood type that attracts mosquitoes to you. The research reveals that your body odor and carboxylic acid levels are also important factors. Essentially, your skin’s bacteria are responsible for metabolizing your sweat, and then releasing it as odorous byproducts.
Female mosquitoes use a straw-like mouthpiece called a proboscis to suck out blood. This helps them identify your location by detecting carbon dioxide and other human skin odorants.
Male mosquitoes do not bite humans. However, they are attracted to pregnant women. This is due to their higher body temperature, which causes them to exhale more carbon dioxide. This, in turn, makes them more appealing to mosquitoes.
If you exercise outside, you are providing an all-you-can-eat buffet to mosquitoes. This is because you’re giving off more heat and CO2. And because they’re sensitive to carbon dioxide, you’re more likely to be targeted by these blood-sucking creatures.
Some people get more bites than others. If this is true for you, you may want to take steps to make your life more bearable. It’s a good idea to avoid working outdoors during peak feeding times. And it’s also a good idea to wear lighter colors in the summer, to help your body feel cooler.
